Lets look at plants that flourish during our cool moist winters. We’ll identify a least five native ferns and several mosses, and discuss life forms and habitats. Bring a hand lens if you have one. Easy/moderate walk, 3 miles, some uphill/downhill. Rain cancels. Parking fees apply. Bring a lunch to enjoy afterwards.

The Robert Ferguson Observatory: Both peaked roofs roll back to reveal the telescopes inside. The dome opens and revolves with its telescope. The tall poles attached to the sides of the building are part of RFO’s radio astronomy set-up that allows us to listen to the Sun. Photo: Mark Hillestad

Susan Topf’s Yoga Hike balances a mix of easy hiking and gentle yoga postures, breath work and guided meditation. No mat necessary. Please wear weather appropriate clothing to feel comfortable being in a natural setting and bring water (as needed). Route varies on weather conditions and group interest that typically covers 2-3 miles of varied terrain. Cost is $20 and includes parking if registered in advance online. Purchase the yoga pass for each group of 3 sessions this year and save $10. All levels and ages welcome. Meet at the Visitor’s Center unless otherwise noted in confirmation email prior to the hike.

The Robert Ferguson Observatory (RFO) is open to the public at least once a month, usually on a Saturday near the time of the New Moon.

Star Parties: Presentations on astronomical topics are given in the classroom throughout the course of the evening. Starting at dusk, the Observatory’s three main telescopes are open for your viewing. Docents set up additional telescopes in front of the building. Friendly and knowledgeable docents are available to answer your questions.

When to arrive: We keep the observatory open as long as there are visitors, but you must arrive within 3 hours after start time to ensure that we remain open for you. Summer Star Parties begin with tours and presentations until it’s dark enough for observing.

Bring warm clothing, even in summer—observing is done outdoors.

There is a short walk from the parking area to the Observatory and you may wish to bring a small flashlight.

White Light: No white lights should be used after dark; the observatory is a red-light-only area to protect everyone’s night vision. We will supply red cellophane to cover flashlights. Please note: ◦ Bring a SMALL flashlight (large camp lanterns, light sticks, etc., cannot be adequately covered by red cellophane). ◦ Cell phones or cell-phone flashlights are acceptable but must be covered in red cellophane. (No cell service at the observatory). ◦ Some head lamps are difficult to cover with red cellophane. Once covered, head lamps should be worn around the neck or used pointing down as they are usually very bright at eye level. ◦ Red flashlights are available for $5 at the observatory.

Alcohol is prohibited on Observatory grounds.

The Observatory is not open to the public except for scheduled events.

Classroom presentations are always offered on Star Party nights even if the weather is poor. For current conditions call the observatory at 707/833-6979. For more info please visit Robert Ferguson Observatory Website: http://www.rfo.org/.

Come to the park for a peaceful hike through the woods, join our Docent’s for this fun family hike that is good for all ages. During this 2 miles hike with a 400 foot vertical, you will learn about Sugarloaf Park and its plants, animals, and history. Weather permitting, the hike will begin and end at the Visitors Center. No RSVP needed, and no charge for the hike. Parking fees apply.

Join Mary Good on a hike exploring the Medicinal and Edible plants of the park. Weaving in natural history, ethnobotany, herbalism and folktales, this walk will open your senses, as well as your curiosity to the abundance of plantlore in Sonoma County. 9:30 AM to 12 PM. Be prepared for a 2 to 3 mile walk with a 300 foot climb. Meet at the visitors center. $10.00 per adult, 18 and under free. Parking fees still apply. Edible plant information is for educational purposes only. Foraging is illegal in CA State Parks.

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Camping at Sugarloaf

You can enjoy camping year-round at Sugarloaf with 47 family-friendly, alcohol-free camping spaces nestled in a large meadow and bordered by a year-round stream and a hillside forest.

Stargazing at Robert Ferguson Observatory

Completely dedicated to public viewing and education, the Robert Ferguson Observatory is the LARGEST in the western United States and it’s right here at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.

School Programs

Sugarloaf offers a wide range of educational opportunities for classes of all ages! Featuring 25 miles of trails, year-round camping, a seasonal waterfall, one of the highest peaks in Sonoma County, and the headwaters to Sonoma Creek!